In our relationships with friends and loved ones, we often do things for each other without expecting anything in return. There’s a kind of unspoken balance in these interactions — a quiet understanding that the kindness we extend will eventually come back to us in some form. Whether it’s through a favor or an unexpected gesture, there’s a certain exchange that happens in human connection. It’s a natural give-and-take.
But what happens when the balance is disrupted, when one person can’t reciprocate in the way society typically expects? This, friends, is where the true essence of charity comes into play.
John Wooden, the legendary UCLA basketball coach, famously said, “You’ve not lived a perfect day until you’ve done something for someone who cannot repay you.” This quote captures the heart of charity — the act of giving without any anticipation of receiving. It’s a selfless act that’s driven purely by the desire to make another person’s life a little better. And, at the core of it, that’s what volunteering is all about.
IMPACT’s Mission: Serving Those Who Need It Most
One organization that truly embodies this spirit of charity is IMPACT, a nonprofit that serves communities in need across the Catalina, Sun City, and SaddleBrooke areas. IMPACT is dedicated to improving the lives of individuals and families who face challenges every day, whether due to health issues, financial hardship, or other obstacles.
IMPACT runs a commercial kitchen where a team of dedicated volunteers prepare and deliver nutritious meals to homebound seniors, providing them with a vital service that many of us take for granted. They prepare and serve approximately 90 meals per day, every Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, ensuring that seniors who are unable to cook for themselves receive the nourishment they need to live with dignity.
But IMPACT is not just about providing meals. The organization also supports a wide range of programs designed to assist the most vulnerable members of the community. With fewer than 12 paid staff members, IMPACT relies on over 170 volunteer shifts every week to carry out its mission. Volunteers help with everything from food and clothing banks to senior transportation, English as a Second Language (ESL) classes, job resource centers, and seasonal community events.
Why We Volunteer: The Personal Rewards of Giving Back
So, what drives someone to give their time and energy to a cause that offers no monetary compensation? It’s the deep satisfaction of knowing that your actions have made someone’s life just a little bit easier.
As one dedicated volunteer at IMPACT puts it:
Volunteering is a pure joy. It’s about doing something for someone else without expecting anything in return. It’s about making a real difference in the lives of people who need help the most.
Another volunteer shared:
Delivering meals with IMPACT is like a breath of fresh air. It’s so rewarding to feed someone who can’t feed themselves. The gratitude you receive in return is priceless.
And for many, volunteering at IMPACT represents something even greater — a sense of belonging to a larger community.
Volunteering at IMPACT means being part of something bigger than yourself. It takes a village, and we’re all working together for the greater good. Meeting new people and witnessing their gratitude is an incredible reward in itself.
The Impact on Those We Serve: Real Stories from Real People
While the volunteers find deep fulfillment in their work, the recipients of IMPACT’s services are equally grateful for the lifeline they receive. For many, these small acts of kindness make all the difference in their daily lives.
One recipient shared:
I’m on Social Security, and this program is a great help financially. Without it, I’d be in a very tough spot. IMPACT is truly a lifesaver for me.
Another wrote:
Health problems have made everyday tasks almost impossible. Thanks to IMPACT’s Meal Delivery, I don’t have to worry about where my next meal is coming from. This program has been a true godsend for me.
These stories are just a few examples of how IMPACT is changing lives. The organization’s impact goes beyond just the meals they serve — it’s about providing hope, dignity, and support to individuals and families who face some of life’s toughest challenges.
Get Involved: Volunteer with IMPACT and Make a Difference
Are you ready to make a difference in someone else’s life? IMPACT is always in need of compassionate volunteers to help with their programs. Whether you’re interested in delivering meals, assisting with senior transportation, or helping in any of their other program areas, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get involved.
Volunteering doesn’t just benefit the people you help; it enriches your life as well. By giving back to your community, you’ll experience the joy of making a meaningful impact on others, and in turn, you’ll find your own life enriched by the connections you build along the way.
To volunteer, visit IMPACT’s volunteer page to explore the different opportunities available and check the schedules. You can also contact the Volunteer Coordinator at [email protected] or call (520) 825‑0009 for more information.
Closing Thoughts: Be the Change You Wish to See
The work IMPACT does is a perfect example of how each of us can make a positive change in our community. Whether it’s a small gesture like delivering a meal or providing a ride to a senior, every action makes a difference. And as volunteers, we are the ones who help bring these actions to life.
So, won’t you join us in this meaningful work? Together, we can make a lasting impact on those who need it the most. Let’s be the change — let’s throw something back.